His father, Brendan, was a well-known and successful Gaelic football star who played on the All-Ireland Championship team (County Offaly in 1982).

Began playing golf at age 13, inspired by his uncles, who were avid fans of the sport. Was a 12 handicap after one year of playing and was a single-digit player before his 15th birthday.

Also competed in rugby, soccer, Gaelic football and hurling.

Won the 2007 Irish Amateur Closed Championship, joining fellow Irishmen Darren Clarke, Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Rory McIlroy as past winners of that event.

Was a member of the Ireland team that won the 2007 European Amateur Team Championship. Was a part of the team that successfully defended its title in 2008. Also won the West of Ireland Championship and the North of Ireland Championship and reached as high